Tips For Older Adults

from the South East Health Unit

The evidence is clear. Older adults can live longer healthier lives by being active, eating in a healthy way and taking steps to minimize their risk for falls.

Being active is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can prevent many health problems and it also helps your muscles become and stay stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others. Being active and strong is the best thing you can do to prevent falls. Here are some tips for older adults to stay active.

In North Grenville you can find fall prevention class information on the Champlain Health Line: www.champlainhealthline.ca.

Injuries can result from seemingly innocent things around your home – many of which can be easily fixed or adapted. The home safety checklist will help you inspect your home for signs of trouble and find ways to fix them. The Safe Living Guide is available to download from the Government of Canada website at www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/safe-living-guide-a-guide-home-safety-seniors.html.

It has hints and information you need to ensure that your home is a safe and secure place, and provides details on some of the following issues.

Physical changes as we age increase our risk of falling on stairs. How your stairs are built can greatly reduce your risk of falling on stairs. If you are building or renovating your home or if you are looking to purchase or relocate to a new home, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has information on safe stair design.

Good nutrition is important at any age. Eating well helps you feel your best each day. Healthy eating helps to prevent or manage heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and some cancers. Regular meals and snacks can help prevent dizziness which can lead to falls.

If you are looking for nutrition counselling on a specific health condition and would like to speak with a Registered Dietitian: In Leeds, Grenville and Lanark, consult our Registered Dietitian Services Directory: healthunit.org/health-information/healthy-eating/registered-dietitian-service-directory.

In Ontario, you can call Telehealth Ontario at no cost at 1-866-797-0000, Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 5:00pm.

Taking your medication properly is part of a healthy lifestyle. Medications include prescription, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Make sure that your health care provider and pharmacist are aware of all the medications you are currently taking. Speak with your health care provider every 6 months about your medications to ensure that you are taking them properly. Tell them if you are experiencing any side effects.

If you take more than one medication:

• Know why you are taking them
• What side effects they have
• How to take them properly
• If they will interact negatively with each other

Ontario MedsCheck is a free program for people that take more than 3 medications. You can have a 30 minute discussion with your pharmacist once a year about your medications.

Ontario Drug Benefit

– Is a program for Ontario residents with a valid Ontario Health Card. The Ontario Drug benefit covers most prescription drugs for people 65 years and older. Ask your health care provider if your medications are covered.

Strong social ties can have a direct and positive impact on health. People who remain actively engaged with those around them are generally happier, in better physical and mental health and cope more effectively with change and life’s transitions.

The post Tips for Older Adults appeared first on The North Grenville Times.